UFC issues statement on Nick Diaz failed drug test, will respect NSAC decision at disciplinary hearing on Feb. 17

Nick Diaz is no stranger to Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) disciplinary hearings.

In fact, he and his attorney, Jonathan Tweedale, presented such a strong argument about marijuana use back in 2012 that NSAC eventually raised its drug test threshold, "to ensure fighters were not penalized for using marijuana days or weeks prior to competing."

Well, Diaz was busted for weed once again after his fight against Anderson Silva at UFC 183 (read details here), which took place at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Jan. 31, 2015. Which would mean, based on the science behind the aforementioned revision, that Diaz was blazing days or hours before showtime.

It's a repeat offense that likely won't go over to well at an upcoming NSAC disciplinary hearing planned for Feb. 17, 2015. And if the Commissioners agree to drop the hammer on Diaz, UFC plans to "fully respect" their final ruling.

From UFC.com:

"The UFC has been notified by the Nevada State Athletic Commission that Nick Diaz has tested positive for marijuana metabolites following his fight with Anderson Silva at UFC 183 on Jan. 31 in Las Vegas, Nev. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by our athletes. As a result of his positive test, Diaz has been informed that he has violated the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and Promotional Agreement with Zuffa, LLC. The UFC organization will fully respect the Commission’s final decision relating to Diaz at a disciplinary hearing set for February 17."

Silva will also likely be in attendance at that meeting because he failed an "out-of-competition" drug test for anabolic steroids. His post-fight drug test results have not yet been revealed, but the damage has already been done.

Both fighters will likely face fines up to 30 percent of their purses and possible suspensions, especially Diaz, who could earn a stiffer sentence based on his previous failed tests.

To read UFC's statement on Silva's failed drug test, which elicits a much more supportive tenor, click here.